employee safety manual - the apprentice and traineeship
TRANSCRIPT
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EMPLOYEE
OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH MANUAL
A REFERENCE PROVIDING DETAILS ON SAFE WORKING PROCEDURES
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OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH POLICY ATC Employment Solutions (“ATCES”) is committed to providing and maintaining, so far as is practicable, the highest standards of occupational safety, health, welfare and rehabilitation for all employees. This will be achieved by ensuring appropriate resources and effort are effectively utilised in the areas of accident and injury prevention. Managers and supervisors will regard safety and health at the workplace as their highest priorities. They will be responsible for ensuring employees are given appropriate information, instruction and education on safe working practices and procedures, together with the correct technique for performing the job. Every employee has an important and responsible role in accident and injury prevention and will be encouraged to participate in improving standards of workplace safety and health. This will involve consultation and communication through OHS Committees, Tool Box Meetings and on going training. Management will consult and co-operate with employees and Health and Safety Committees, on workplace safety and health issues. This will ensure that we work together to promote and maintain a safer working environment. This policy, along with all OHS documentation, will be reviewed on a regular basis to ensure continued improvement to the OHS Management System and to address changes on OHS and organisational standards. Stan Liaros Chief Executive Officer Tom Hall Chairman of the Board
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1. LEGAL ASPECTS OF SAFETY OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH ACT OF WA (1984) Occupational Safety and Health (OS&H) laws aim to make workplaces safer and to prevent injury or disease to workers.
Under the Act, all people involved in the workplace have responsibilities for safety and health at work. This includes:
People in control of workplaces
Employers or people who hire labour
Apprentices-trainees and self employed people
People who design and construct buildings
People who design, manufacture or supply materials, plant, equipment or substance for use in a workplace
The Act provides guidelines to employers and apprentices-trainees on how to effectively consult and communicate on OS&H matters. In particular, the Act aims to:
Promote and secure the safety and health of people in workplaces
Protect workers from hazards
Ensure safe and hygienic working conditions
Reduce, eliminate and control hazards in the workplace
Encourage co-operation and consultation between employers, apprentices-trainees and others in the workplace
Promote education and awareness of OS&H laws and regulations
The Act provides a framework where consultation, co-operation, regulations, codes of practice and procedures for resolution of issues support the General Duties of Care which are the guiding principals for all other parts of the Act.
The OS&H Act is supported by regulations which have the force of law and set out the legal requirements for particular hazards or workplace activities. These regulations are enforceable and breaches may result in prosecution and fines.
Approved Codes of Practice are also issued by the minister to provide practical guidance on how a particular standard can be achieved and to detail the preferred methods or courses of action to achieve that standard.
Codes of Practice do not have the same legal force as regulations and people cannot be prosecuted for an offence under a code of practice.
Guidance Notes are also provided to help explain certain aspects of the Act, Regulations, Standards and Codes of Practice.
All employees of ATCES are directed to ensure that they are familiar with all Safety and Health
policies, information, instructions and requirements applicable to the client employer's workplace or
site.
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Each employee must:
Adhere to all safe work practices, instructions and rules
Perform all duties in a manner which ensures the individual's safety and health and that of
others
When in the employment of the host employer and working at another employer's workplace or site all
apprentices and trainees are to comply with any Occupational Safety and Health procedures. rules,
regulations, instructions etc. for that workplace or site.
2. DUTY OF CARE
WorkSafe when investigating accidents use a legal concept called Duty of Care. Duty of Care means
that every employer and employee has an obligation to act in a manner that is not negligent. If a
person is negligent, it means that they failed to taken some action that is expected of them to take, to
prevent an accident.
Under the OSH Act and your Duty of Care you must:
Perform work duties in a safe and responsible way
Cooperate and follow the instructions given by ATCES and the client employer or supervisor in regard to safety and health
Use personal protective equipment where provided and in the way you have been instructed
Report all hazards to the ATCES and the client employer
Not perform any work that you believe to be unsafe. Discuss the issue with your client employer and if you are not convinced that the problem has been fixed you must contact ATCES.
The client employer must do the following to demonstrate a Duty of Care:
Make the work place safe and without risk to your health
Ensure the safe use, handling, storage and transport of equipment and substances
Provide an adequate level of instruction, training and supervision to ensure safety, especially
to staff who operate complex and potentially dangerous equipment
ATCES must do the following to demonstrate a Duty of Care:
Provide a safety induction programme to all employees
Check the client employer’s workplace for safety and health systems, procedures and the
general work environment
Monitor safety and health, and as needed help the client employer by suggesting safer
practices and/or conditions
Remove the apprentice from the client employer if a safe workplace cannot be provided and
maintained
3. PENALTIES
If you fail to comply with your Duty of Care and/or supply false information, obstruct inspectors or do
not abide by the OSH law you could receive a fine of up to $25,000.00 for a first offence. (Refer to
OSH Act 20A(i)(a))
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4. HOUSEKEEPING
Housekeeping is the general cleanliness and tidiness of your work environment. Ongoing good
housekeeping standards require commitment and perseverance by both the client employer and the
employee involved.
Good housekeeping is essential in preventing accidents and promoting good safety. Employees are
required to keep their machines/equipment and work areas clean and tidy. The following points
should be adhered at all times:
Working areas are to be kept free of all rubbish and waste materials
Nails protruding from timber are to be pulled out or bent over
Use bins provided for waste, rubbish, wire, sawdust and general scrap
Immediately wipe up or use the spill kit provided, to clean up any spills, particularly oil and grease,
to prevent slips and falls
Return containers that have contained flammable liquids carefully
Return all tools to their proper storage areas
Keep toilets and washrooms tidy
Keep passageways clear at all times
Do not leave stock on the floor or in passageways
Shield welding jobs (i.e. welding screens)
Do not participate in any form of horse play
Follow safe work procedures (e.g. handling asbestos, working at heights, working in the outdoors
etc.)
Ask your supervisor if you are unsure about any of the above
5. WORKERS COMPENSATION
You are covered for workers compensation during working hours. All claims for compensation must
be made through ATCES in person. A claim cannot be processed without the correct doctor's
certificate (Form 5) being obtained.
It is essential that you consult a doctor on the day of injury as a backdated doctor's certificate will not
be accepted by the Workcover.
6. ACCIDENT REPORTING
The Occupational Safety and Health Act imposes a duty of care on employers, visitors to company
offices, work sites and all employees.
Records of all injuries are required to be kept. All accidents no matter how minor must be reported to
the client employer and to ATCES immediately.
Admission to a hospital of any employee, for any period resulting from a work related injury, must be
reported to the Division of Accident Prevention by ATCES within 24 hours.
If the injury results in absenteeism you must report to ATCES’ office and complete a workers
compensation claim form.
7. PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT (PPE)
ATCES’ employees are required to wear personal protective equipment whenever it is necessary,
including during attendance at all training providers facilities. All PPE must comply with relevant
Australian Standards.
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8. FIRE AND SAFETY
Apprentices and trainees who have to operate burning and welding equipment, must ensure that the
area is safe, and the surrounding area is clear of flammable and combustible materials.
Do not use petrol, thinners or other flammable substances in a hot unventilated room, near an open
flame near power sources or on hot surfaces.
All oils, paints and other flammable substances must be stored in specific labelled containers. Only
small quantities of these materials should be taken into the work area.
Do not block access to hydrants, fire hose boxes, fire extinguishers or other fire fighting equipment.
In case of fire:
Inform: Raise the alarm to the supervisor and all personnel.
Decide: A decision whether to fight the fire or not needs to be made. The supervisor should
make this decision. If the fire is small and controllable the fire may need to be fought.
This can be done by using a suitable fire extinguisher or a fire blanket.
Call: The nearest fire department and give them all the relevant details eg. address, type of
fire, the cause and if dangerous goods are involved etc.
Retreat: If the fire is too big or dangerous to control retreat to the designated assembly area in
a calm manner.
Types of Extinguishers: Pressurised Water Extinguishers
Solid Red in colour Use on only Paper, Rubbish and Furniture fires
Carbon Dioxide Extinguishers
Red in colour with a black band Use on only Electrical, Petrol/ liquid Fuel fires. Limited effectiveness on Paper, rubbish and furniture fires
Dry Chemical Extinguishers Red in colour with white band Use on Petrol/ liquid Fuel fires. Not necessarily suitable for Paper, rubbish and furniture fires. Discharge near electrical equipment may damage the equipment. There are two types of this extinguisher- check which you have.
Foam Extinguisher
Solid blue in colour Use on only Paper, rubbish, furniture fires and Petrol/liquid fuel fires
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9. NOISE
Noise is often described as unwanted sound. There are two important characteristics of sound -
frequency and intensity. Low frequency noises are what we hear from bass guitars or rumbling
noises. High frequency noise might be a shriek or a high pitched whine. Both can be very damaging.
All workplaces generate noise. In some cases, this level of noise will lead to discomfort and pain.
Repeated exposure to excessive noise will eventually lead to permanent damage. Extreme levels of
noise can also result in immediate hearing loss (acute).
The effects can include:
Hearing loss
Too much noise can cause permanent damage and reduced quality of life. There is no remedial
treatment and hearing aids are of limited benefit. Hearing loss can result in social withdrawal and
feelings of isolation as the person may find it difficult to take part in normal conversation.
Tinnitus
Many people who have a certain degree of hearing loss may also suffer from tinnitus - a ringing and
buzzing sound in their ears. These sounds can be extremely annoying and can interfere with sleep.
Fatigue/Low Productivity
Many people find that noise adds to the fatigue of work, which can make it difficult to concentrate.
Productivity can suffer as a result.
Annoyance and Stress
Noise is a common source of annoyance and stress. It has been found that noise can often be the
main complaint regarding working conditions.
Noise is a safety hazard. It can distract attention. It could drown out the sound of an alarm.
A variety of hearing protectors are available when the level of noise cannot be controlled by other
means. The use of hearing protectors must be supported by information, instruction and training on
how to use them correctly.
Eployees have a responsibility to wear hearing protection when noise levels are high and when
instructed to do so.
10. SMOKING
Smoking is only permitted in designated areas. Cigarette butts must be extinguished in ash trays and
other approved containers. You must obey 'No Smoking' signs at all workplaces or training facilities.
11. MANUAL HANDLING
Most people think of manual handling as lifting and carrying objects by hand, however manual
handling also includes other movements where a force is exerted. The correct definition for manual
handling is any activity requiring the use of force exerted by a person to lift, lower, push, pull, carry or
otherwise move, hold or restrain any person, animal or thing.
There is a Code of Practice on Manual Handling that can help identify, assess and evaluate and
control risks associated with manual handling tasks.
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The Code of Practice promotes using mechanical lifting devices before manual handling. Next would be a team lift approach.
Manual handling applies to a wide range of every day work procedures. Unfortunately, many of these
manual handling tasks have led to injuries to workers.
If the job requires you to handle or lift objects and materials, use the following method to avoid injury:
Place your feet apart (about hip width), as close as possible to the object being lifted and one
foot slightly ahead in direction of travel
Always bend your knees as this uses the leg muscles and will protect your back
Hold your arms as close to your body as possible
Keep your back very straight
Take a firm, secure grip. Where possible use the palms of hands, not just the fingertips
Tuck you chin in as this helps to keep the back straight
DON'T twist at the waist - Turn your whole body and move your feet
DON'T lift awkward or heavy objects by yourself - Get assistance
12. ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT
Only electricians are permitted to install or repair electrical equipment. Defective electrical equipment
and unsafe wiring must be reported immediately to your supervisor and tagged out with an “out of
service” tag.
Electrical cords must not be placed across aisles or walking areas as they may create a tripping
hazard and could be damaged by other equipment (e.g. Forklift). At all times, assume electrical
equipment and wiring to be 'live' and therefore dangerous.
Protective footwear may provide some protection against electric shock. In situations where contact
with overhead wires is possible, head protection should be worn. For example by a linesman, head
protection is available that provides protection from electric shock and burn. When selecting head
protection, knowledge of potential electrical hazards is important as different helmets provide different
levels of protection.
An important aspect of preventing injuries from electricity is to ensure that electrical equipment is
properly insulated.
If electric shock does occur follow the instructions below:
High Voltage Power
Stay more than six metres from the victim
Shout reassurance
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Low Voltage
Turn off electricity if possible
When Power is Off
If Victim is Unconscious
Follow Emergency Action Flow Chart
If Victim Conscious
Apply sterile non-stick dressings to entry and exit burns
Fix dressings with a light bandage
13. CHEMICALS
Introduction
Every business and industry type uses a wide variety of chemicals.
Thousands of new chemicals are produced every year that add to the existing chemicals. Data shows
that chemicals can contribute up to 50% of occupational illness and disease.
Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) provide information on the risks associated with chemical use,
including PPE to be worn and first aid requirements. MSDS provides information on the following:
(1) Physical Effects of Chemicals
Physical effects of chemicals are those effects that can cause harm and injury due to the physical
properties of the chemicals. These include:
Explosiveness Substances that pose the danger of blast and explosion eg - LPG
Flammability
Materials that pose the danger of fire, can add heat to a fire and generate toxic fumes - petrol,
synthetic materials.
Reactivity
Chemicals that react violently when in contact with other material eg. pool chlorine and brake fluid.
Oxidation
Chemicals that release oxygen, increasing the potential for fire or adding to the violence of fires.
Corrosiveness
Chemicals that bum the skin, eyes, respiratory or digestive tracts, causing irreversible damage eg -
acids and caustics.
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Other physical hazards include the temperature and pressure of the materials. Hot or very cold
chemicals burn the body on contact eg - dry ice. Chemicals under pressure may explode or become
projectiles if damaged.
It is important when working with chemicals that you not only know what is potentially harmful, but also
the secondary hazards such as the potential for explosion or violent reaction.
(2) Toxic Hazard of Chemicals
Toxic hazards relate to the chemical's ability to damage the human body because of irritation with
processes within the body.
These effects include:
Irritants that cause irritation at the point of contact producing either reversible effects eg - rash or
irreversible effects eg - scarring. Irritants include ammonia, solvents and chlorine gas.
Asphyxiants inhibit the body's ability to absorb or transport oxygen. These include simple
asphyxiants eg - oxygen depleted atmosphere, or chemical asphyxiants eg - cyanide, carbon
monoxide.
Sensitisers cause or provoke allergic reactions such as asthma or allergic dermatitis eg -
isocyanides, formaldehyde or chromium salts.
Chemicals are discussed in terms of toxicity. The toxicity of a chemical is based on the following
factors:
the physical properties of the chemical
how the chemical enters the body
how much of the chemical entered the body and over what period of time;
the susceptibility of the exposed individual
(3) Physical Properties
The physical properties of a chemical relate to the state of that chemical under different situations.
These states include:
Vapour: The evaporated or gaseous form of a substance that is normally in a liquid state. An
example in the workplace could be the vapours from petrol or thinner's.
Dust - Particulates: Tiny solid particles that do not tend to mix and move through the air,
eventually settle. Dust is usually generated by the break-up of materials by crushing, grinding, or
disturbing powdered material.
Fumes: Fumes are created when a vapour is formed above the surface of a liquid (normally
molten metal). This reacts with the oxygen in the air to form a metal oxide. For example, a welder
can be exposed to welding fumes.
Mist: Suspended liquid droplets are generated when a gas or vapour condenses to the liquid
state. An example is oil mist from cutting and grinding operations.
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(4) Route of Entry The three main routes of entry of chemicals into the body are:
inhalation through the lungs
absorption through the skin
ingestion into the body
(5) Dose of a Chemical
A dose is the amount of chemicals taken into the body. Exposure to chemicals can be described as
either acute or chronic.. Acute generally means single or short term exposure, and chronic exposure
usually means low level of exposure for long periods of time.
The three main factors in evaluating exposure at work are:
what amount of the substance is present
how long is the exposure
how often does the exposure occur
(6) Susceptibility of the Exposed Individual
Some individuals are more sensitive to the effects of chemicals than others. This could lead to the
person having serious side-effects when coming into contact with a specific substance.
The Use of Material Safety Data Sheets
Client employers have a legal responsibility to ensure that employees working with substances are provided with information on the use, handling, transportation, storage and disposal of these substances. Apprentices and trainees have a legal responsibility to follow these instructions. Ask for directions on use etc, when uncertain. The following provides examples of what MSDS covers: The quality of Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) can vary. They give advice on:
Ingredients of a product;
Health effects and first aid instructions;
Precautions for use
Emergency procedures
Identification
This section should first identify the product, with portions of the product, with portions of the product in
a mixture. Details should also be given regarding:
The dangerous goods class:
HAZCHEM code
Poisons schedule
Boiling point-melting point
Vapour pressure
Specific gravity
Flash point
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Flammability limits
Solubility
Physical appearance
Health Effects
Information should cover the acute and chronic effects of exposure to skin, eyes, inhalation and
swallowing. The most severe effects of the product should be stated first.
First Aid
Information on the MSDS should show the basic initial care and if medical attention is required. If
special first aid facilities, such as showers or eye wash are required, then this should be stated on the
MSDS.
Advice to Doctor
Information should be of a specific nature that will be of use to medical staff. Specific remedies should
be indicated. Where no remedy is available, the doctor should be advised to contact a poison's
information centre.
Precautions for Use
The precautions for use should provide sufficient warning about the substance and provide details for
developing safe work procedures.
Exposure Standards
Exposure standards represent airborne concentrations of individual chemical substances, which
should not impair the health or cause undue discomfort to all workers. Exposure standards are
intended only for use as a guide in the control of potential health hazards and should be interpreted by
a qualified experienced personnel.
Engineering Controls
The MSDS should outline those engineering controls that are appropriate for the recommended uses
and application of the substance.
Emphasis should be on engineering methods rather than the need for protective clothing.
Personal Protection
Information on the need for and the type of protection required should be provided. Specific types of
respirators should be listed, if required. Special requirements may exist for gloves, eye protection or
other equipment, and these should be stated.
Flammability
Details should include where necessary the need for ventilation, the need to avoid ignition sources,
and any other special requirements.
Safe Handling Information
Details include information on storage and transport, spills and disposal, fire/explosion hazards.
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Conclusion
The potential for injuries and harm to health associated with chemicals at work can be high. Incidents
that have occurred in the past were usually caused by lack of information, procedures, training and
knowledge. Your client employer should have MSDS for ALL hazardous chemicals in your workplace.
No apprentice should be allowed to work unless they know what is in the chemical and its health
effects.
The Materials Safety Data Sheet is invaluable and an indispensable source of information on the
hazardous substances used. It helps to formulate safe working practices and procedures and create
safe handling and emergency procedures.
MSDS are required to be updated at least every 5 years. If the MSDS is older than that, report the
matter to your supervisor.
14. MECHANICAL HAZARDS
The majority of hazards associated with machinery can be regarded as mechanical hazards.
Examples of mechanical hazards are shown. These cause injuries that are a result of:
Entanglement with the machinery
Being trapped between the machine and any material or fixed structure
Entanglement with any material in motion
Being struck by ejected parts
Entanglement
Entanglement is usually caused by loose clothing, jewellery, cleaning brushes or rags. Bodily contact
may occur due to contact with machines with rotating surfaces.
Entanglement caused by catch, rip points or gaps
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Drawing -in hazards between two counter-rotating parts
Stabbing and Puncture
Stabbing and puncture injuries can be caused by flying objects such as an abrasive wheel
disintegrating, or by rapidly moving parts a machine or by pieces of material such as drilling machines.
Impact Hazards
Impact hazards care caused by objects which act against the general weight of the body but do
penetrate it, such as being struck by protrusions or moving counter-weights.
Impact
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Risk Controls for Machinery Hazards
When operating any sort of machinery, always adhere to the following points:
Never operate any sort of machinery unless guards are in place
Do not tamper with machine guard or warning signs
Always wear suitable eye protection
Remove off-cuts or objects from around moving machine parts with a brush or a stick - never with the hand or compressed air
Do not operate lathes or drills with the chuck keys in place
Do not leave running machines unattended
Before making adjustments or repairs, always stop the machinery and attach a danger tag
15. OFFICE SAFETY
Accidents can and do occur in the office. There are many objects that can cause injury, unless the
following guidelines are observed:
Keep desk drawers and files closed when they are not in use
Open one file drawer at a time - if more than one is opened the cabinet may tip over
Practice caution when using the stairways and always wear sensible footwear
Do not stand or lean back on chairs
Never carry pens or pencils in your mouth or with the exposed point upwards in your pocket
Electrical leads to office machines and telephones should not be trailed along aisles or looped around desks - this can create a serious tripping hazard
Do not keep sharp objects in the desk drawer's eg - pins, thumb tacks. Always keep these objects in containers
Follow the basic rules for lifting - manual handling
Maintain correct posture for computer operation by using equipment supplied such as chairs, document holders, foot rests etc.
16. PREVENTION OF FALLS (working at heights and working at same level)
Fall arrest systems are designed to prevent falls from elevated workplaces where redesign of the work
is not possible. Guardrails provide protection from falling and provide greater mobility to workers than
safety harnesses. Protective footwear should be worn for greater grip and protection from falling
objects.
Fractures are the most common injuries caused by a fall or trip. To help prevent trips and falls from
happening in the future, the following should be done:
Clean up spills immediately - display a hazard sign until the area is safe
Make sure passageways are clear of obstructions
When carrying a load remember to walk forwards not backwards
Report broken tiles or uneven floors - display a warning sign until repaired;
Use a step ladder rather than chairs, cases, saw horses or trolleys to reach items that are out of reach
Assess structures for sturdiness before walking on them.
17. LADDERS
Do not use defective ladders. To prevent the ladder slipping, either tie it securely or have someone
hold it while in use.
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Do not use metal ladders when working close by to electricity.
18. OTHER HAZARDS
A large number and a wide range of accidents may be related to poor housekeeping eg - trips, falls. It
is every apprentice's responsibility to report any hazardous practice or condition in the workplace.
This will prevent injury or damage to apprentices and equipment in the future.
There are a number of things that must be ensured in every workplace.
Machinery and Equipment
Clean and free of unnecessary material
Free of dripping oil or grease
Proper guards provided and in good condition
Stock and Material
Properly piled and arranged
Loaded and/or stored safely and orderly
Tools
Properly stored
Free of oil and grease when stored
Aisles
Provided to work positions, fire extinguishers and exits
Safe and free of obstructions
Floors
Surfaces safe and suitable to work
Clean, dry and free of unnecessary material, oil and grease
Buildings
Walls and windows that are reasonably clean for operations on that area and free of unnecessary hangings
Lighting systems that are maintained in an efficient manner
Stairs that are clean, free of materials, well lighted and with adequate hand rails
Platforms are clean, free of materials and well lighted 19. ALCOHOL AND OTHER DRUGS
The consumption of alcohol or other drugs is prohibited in workplaces at all times. This includes before, during or after work at any workplace or training facility that employees are required to attend. If employees report to work under the influence of alcohol or drugs they will be suspended immediately. Studies by the WA Health Department show that employees suffering from alcohol or drug related intoxication are:
Up to 25% less productive
Are absent from work 2 to 3 times more often
Significantly more likely to be involved in a workplace accident
More likely to suffer from other health or psychological problems
Less able to react appropriately in emergency situations
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Workers who are intoxicated or under the influence of drugs in the workplace are not able to ensure their own safety and health at work and pose substantial risks to the safety and health of their fellow workers.
Statistics from 1995 show that almost 30% of workplace fatalities were related to alcohol or other drug use and nearly one quarter of all workplace accidents reported that year involved intoxicated persons.
EFFECTS OF INTOXICATION
ALCOHOL All alcoholic beverages impair both the performance and cognitive abilities of users. The risk of accidents increases rapidly with increased consumption and measurable impairment occurs after only 2 standard drinks.
Blood Alcohol Level Risk Factor 0.05% 2 times the risk 0.08% 5 times the risk 0.12% 25 times the risk 0.18% 50 times the risk
Alcohol is slow to metabolise and can be retained by the body for up to 14 hours. A person who consumes 4 standard drinks per hour over a 3 hour period before midnight, will still register a Blood Alcohol Level in excess of 0.05% at 10.00 am the next day. Driving ability and the ability to safely operate machinery, will still be impaired by as much as 25% by midday.
CANNABIS
The degree of impairment caused by cannabis is related to the dose consumed. A single cannabis cigarette can cause significant, measurable impairment for up to 10 hours after the dose was taken.
Cannabis is stored in the body’s fat cells and can be detected in the urine, hair and nails of regular users for up to 21 days after the last exposure. Even occasional recreational use can be detected up to 10 days later.
Cannabis use causes:
Reduced reflexes and impaired cognitive ability
Slower reaction times
Shortened attention span – easily distracted
Significantly reduced motivation
Memory impairment
Cannabis also contains higher tar levels and more potent carcinogens (cancer causing agents) than tobacco and has a cumulative effect when combined with alcohol or other drugs.
Studies into road accidents in the USA during 1995/96 showed that almost 38% of people killed in road accidents, tested positive to cannabis use.
AMPHETAMINES
Amphetamines are highly addictive and the effects of amphetamine use are associated with:
Aggressive behaviour
Increased risk taking
Restlessness and inability to concentrate
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Intoxication often leads to:
Disorientation
Hallucinations
Paranoia
Psychosis
Withdrawal symptoms can often include severe, almost pathological depression, anxiety and increased irrationality. LSD (Acid, Trips etc) LSD is a synthetically manufactured chemical compound which causes:
Disorientation and confusion
Hallucinations – often severe, uncontrollable and traumatic
Very limited attention span
Paranoia and psychosis
The effects of LSD are unpredictable and often traumatic in individual users and in some cases, people never really ‘come back’ from their first and only ’trip’.
BENZODIAZEPINES
Benzodiazepines are depressant drugs, which act on the central nervous system and include such compounds as Valium, Serapax, Mogodon etc.
These substances are generally only available on prescription.
The effects of benzodiazepines vary depending on the particular drug and the dose taken, but long term use is usually addictive and can lead to:
Chronic depression
Drowsiness
Loss of motivation
When combined with alcohol or other drugs, the consequences can be serious, leading to coma and even death.
OPIATES
Opiates include legal drugs such as codeine, panadeine and some cough mixtures, as well as illegal substances such as heroin and morphine.
Effects include:
Depression of central nervous system
Suppression of the body’s response to pain
Addiction and dependence
Drug users are often depicted as unemployed, unwashed no-hopers, but Health Department figures show that approximately 70% of all people treated for chemical dependency, were in full time employment and that up to 10% of Australia’s total workforce suffer from problems associated with alcohol or drug abuse.
Use or abuse of any drug, including alcohol, can have a detrimental effect on a person’s ability to learn and retain knowledge and to work safely in hazardous environments.
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20. ADDITIONAL SAFETY INFORMATION WORKSAFE WA
WorkSafe provides a comprehensive range of safety information, including:
Copies of the Act and Regulations
Codes of Practice approved by the minister, on such matters as Manual handling, Elevated work platforms, Hazardous substances, Prevention of falls and Excavations and workplace bullying and harassment.
National codes of practice adopted by WA, including Safe removal of asbestos, Preparation of MSDS, Labelling of workplace substances, Protection of hearing and others
Guidance Notes on matters such as Formation of safety committees, General duties of care and Electrical residual current devices
In addition, WorkSafe also produce a variety of pamphlets and other publications dealing with a wide range of common workplace hazards.
Information on WorkSafe publications and a lot of other safety related information including a video library is available on WorkSafe’s Safety Line web site.
Copies of the Occupational Safety & Health Act WA, the OS&H Regulations and most Codes of Practice are available to be read at ATCES’ office. Any employee wishing to refer to any of this material should contact their ATCES representative.
Employees will also receive considerable training in safety aspects concerning their particular trade, once they commence their Certificate of Trade Studies course at their Registered Training Organisation, as safety will continue to be of vital importance throughout your training.
Please remember your Duty of Care, Safety is more than just an important responsibility
SAFETY IS A WAY OF LIFE
- Look out for others as well as yourself
1. Spot the Hazard
2. Assess the Risk
3. Make the Changes